Boer, krijgsman en Karel de Grote in kleding uit de zevende en negende eeuw 1857

This undated print by an anonymous artist, held at the Rijksmuseum, depicts a farmer, a warrior, and Charlemagne in clothing from the seventh and ninth centuries. The artist uses costume to define social standing, visually encoding a rigid hierarchy. Note how dress and weaponry signifies identity and power. A farmer, a warrior, and a king—each figure represents a distinct role within this early medieval society. What emotional impact does the contrast between the figures evoke in you? The print invites reflection on the construction of identity through material culture and representation. It prompts us to consider how historical narratives are shaped and reinforced through visual imagery. What unspoken stories lie beneath the surface of these carefully constructed representations?